Gender transition: how phytocannabinoids can contribute to hormonal treatment

By specialist Rafael R. Pereira

Despite being something eagerly awaited by some individuals, gender transition is a difficult, delicate process that involves a series of issues related to acceptance, self-esteem, and identification for human beings who do not identify with the sex assigned at birth.

Gender transition is a highly debated topic in recent years and has gained more prominence in today's world. However, contrary to this, there are significant cultural and social barriers for transgender individuals who aspire to undergo the transition to be welcomed, accepted, and respected by their families and society. Cannabinoid-based medications may be the path to a smoother transition without traumas. And why not say a safe way to help this population that already faces many prejudices.

Brazil leads the ranking of countries with the highest number of transgender individuals killed in the world, for the 13th consecutive year, according to data from the Dossier of Murders and Violence against Brazilian Travesties and Transsexuals, conducted by the National Association of Travesties and Transsexuals (Antra).

How is gender transition done?

Many times, people end up associating gender transition with sexual reassignment, which is not entirely true, since although part of the trans population chooses to undergo surgery, this is not the only alternative for transition.

Individuals who choose to undergo gender transition through hormonal therapies use hormones consistent with the gender they identify with. Many of these individuals choose only hormonal therapy and a name change.

In trans women, estrogen is administered, which is responsible for reducing body hair growth, as well as bringing other effects that enhance the feminine appearance such as decreased muscle mass, accentuation of fat in the hips, and possible reduction in the size of the reproductive organ.

In trans men, testosterone is used, a hormone that increases hair production, favoring the appearance of a beard. There is also an increase in muscle mass, deepening of the voice, and possible enlargement of the clitoris, among other changes.

Hormonal therapy

Hormonal therapy treatment should be lifelong, without interruption. However, the hormone doses administered can be adjusted as needed. The endocrinologist is the physician responsible for prescribing hormonal therapy and monitoring patients.

Cannabinoids that can help with hormonal treatment

Phytocannabinoids, natural substances found in cannabis, can help since phytocannabinoids, such as CBD (cannabidiol), react positively to a pair of receptors (called CB1 and CB2) present in the nervous system and other parts of the body. In addition, there is THC (another phytocannabinoid) that can modulate different neurotransmitters within the hypothalamus - the central-lower section of the brain that connects the endocrine system to the central nervous system.

Phytocannabinoids play a role in promoting balance, helping to alleviate the side effects (physical and emotional) of hormonal therapy. Among the positive effects, we can highlight:
improved sleep quality decreased anxiety improved appetite.

Although many doctors may not be aware of the power of medicinal cannabis, there is an increasingly large community of researchers and healthcare professionals studying and prescribing phytocannabinoids worldwide.

According to biomedical scientist Bárbara Arranz, cannabinoid-based medications can provide hormonal balance and make the transition more comfortable for transgender individuals. According to her, "studies are very scarce, and it is difficult to find material discussing gender and cannabis. But it is possible to see that marijuana can help with comfort and acceptance levels during the process."

The physician states that, according to studies, THC has a significant impact on regulating the body's hormones and is the only one capable of regulating different types of hormones, such as prolactin and growth-stimulating hormones. The effects of CBD influence the estrous cycle, recurrent physiological changes induced by hormones.

In addition, clinical studies indicate that this cannabinoid has a greater therapeutic effect on individuals with predominantly female reproductive hormones.

What are the warnings?

Depending on the types of cannabinoids applied and their respective dosages incorrectly or without guidance can cause serious health damage. Although the treatment works effectively and well, the specialist physician warns that it is important to be aware of the adverse effects that may occur.

"Each body functions differently, so this knowledge is important for individuals to continue the treatment," Arranz concluded.